Films, television and digital content play a key role in language preservation by reinforcing linguistic familiarity and cultural nuance while evoking a sense of emotional belonging.
In an era when globalised media dominates, the demand for authentic and culturally resonant stories has never been greater. For Arab audiences, seeing narratives that reflect their experiences, languages and traditions is crucial. Native content not only preserves cultural identity but also strengthens a community’s connection to its roots.
The role of film in language preservation
Cinema has long reflected culture, language and identity. Arabic, spoken by over 400m people worldwide, is a historically rich and diverse language, with dozens of dialects spoken across the region. However, with the dominance of English and other global languages in entertainment and digital platforms, there is a growing concern about linguistic erosion, especially among younger generations. Studies have shown that media consumption directly influences language retention. Films, television and digital content play a key role in language preservation by reinforcing linguistic familiarity and cultural nuance while evoking a sense of emotional belonging.
Shaping cultural identity
Abu Dhabi is playing a pivotal role in this cultural renaissance by actively supporting the rise of local content that resonates with regional audiences. Through strategic investments and initiatives, the emirate is nurturing a vibrant ecosystem in which filmmakers can tell stories that matter to their communities. Local entities have been at the forefront of this movement by producing original content that helps maintain the Arabic language’s relevance in modern contexts. From critically acclaimed films to compelling series that blend world-class expertise with regional knowledge, they have attempted to elevate Arabic content on regional and global platforms.
Celebrating Arabic through cinema
A case in point is one of the region’s most anticipated cinematic releases, Catsaway – the first Emirati feature-length animated musical. It takes the audience on a nostalgic journey through old Abu Dhabi in the 1990s with a group of misfit but lovable stray cats, capturing the city’s charm before its transformation into a global metropolis.
Catsaway features an impressive lineup of voice actors from across the Arab world – the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Sudan – incorporating a wide range of dialects. This linguistic tapestry not only enhances the film’s authenticity but also mirrors the UAE’s legacy as a melting pot of cultures where people from different backgrounds coexist harmoniously.
Beyond language, Catsaway provides an unprecedented cinematic depiction of Abu Dhabi’s storied past, faithfully recreating historical landmarks, old souks and traditional neighbourhoods. Through its vivid animation and culturally rich storytelling, the film helps youngsters connect with Abu Dhabi’s heritage, adding an immersive educational element to the experience. Likewise, productions such as Al Kameen, Al Eid Eiden, Zinzana and HWJN showcase a range of regional stories, preserving cultural traditions while appealing to modern audiences. They bridge the gap between traditional narratives and contemporary storytelling, promoting a deeper sense of cultural belonging.
Commitment to local storytelling
Amplifying Arabic storytelling through world-class productions is a surefire way of celebrating the region’s linguistic and cultural diversity. By investing in local talent and championing regional stories, Abu Dhabi has helped preserve cultural heritage and redefined the region’s place in global cinema.
Talal Al Asmani is Head of Local Content at Image Nation Abu Dhabi.
